Theft-accused consents to further remand in custody

A man charged with a string of thefts from Athlone businesses has consented to a further remand in custody while he awaits assessment by the probation service.

Paul O’Connor (49), with addresses at St Brendan’s Terrace, Ballinasloe, Co Galway, and River Village, Tuam Road, Athlone, Co Roscommon, as well as Cúlán Eiscir Riada, Dunlo, Ballinasloe, Co Galway, appeared before Athlone District Court on Wednesday, February 4, via video link, where he consented to a four-week remand in custody.

In January, he pleaded guilty to five theft charges, for clothing, groceries, tools and crystal ornaments, amounting to a total value of €276.88 on dates in September, November and December, 2025.

Mr O’Connor, who has 46 previous convictions, mainly for road traffic offences, is also currently in custody on similar charges before Ballinasloe District Court.

Solicitor Padraig Quinn, on behalf of the accused, said his client has been engaging with addiction treatment services in Castlerea prison and wants to continue with that treatment, he said. He “makes no excuse” for his offending.

Judge Bernadette Owens remanded Mr O’Connor in custody, on consent, to March 4, 2026, for a probation report and penalty.